Marrakech is a mysterious and energetic city. Getting lost on the streets and in the souks is inevitable. Amongst the hospitality, the weather, and the coral colors in the streets, you will feel the warmth in Marrakech. This was my first time in Marrakech and my husband (still not used to that word!) Daniel and I were here for our honeymoon. We wanted a less conventional honeymoon and I’m so glad we chose Marrakech as our first stop. Since Marrakech is very condensed, traveling everywhere by foot is best so you don’t miss anything. While walking around we were surrounded by beauty; colorful tiles, unique rugs, and intricately carved doors. Marrakech isn’t a city where you rush from sight to sight, so we sat back, relaxed and enjoyed being immersed in a unique culture. If you’re spending more than one day in Marrakech, I highly suggest going out to the desert for an overnight and a once in a lifetime experience.
WHERE WE STAYED:
Riad Yasmine: Incredibly popular on social media and for good reason, it is stunning and picturesque. The staff at riad Yasmine are unbelievably helpful and hospitable. I highly suggest staying at a riad. It is a typical Moroccan accommodation that customarily has a pool or fountain in the center courtyard and is away from the main roads, making it a peaceful oasis. We chose this Riad firstly because of it’s affordability, rooms range from 100 to 130 euros per night depending on the size of the room (we stayed in the Mergouza suite). Secondly we chose Riad Yasmine because of it’s location, anything located inside of the city walls is considered to be a great location (remember Marrakech is very small and walkable). Lastly we chose Riad Yasmine because of the amenities; a rooftop, a pool, and a delicious breakfast that was included in the rate.
WHAT WE SAW (DID):
The Souks:
A must when visiting Marrakech, the souk is a large labyrinth market located in the city center. There’s nothing that isn’t sold in the souk! Moroccan vendors can also be bothersome and very persuasive so you’ll need to perfect the word “no!” Be aware that when taking photos of snake charmers, vendors, or other performers in the main square, they will demand that you pay them for the photograph. Once you’ve taken an initial lap you can go back and begin to bargain. Visiting and shopping the souk is a lively cultural activity and contains many surprises around every corner!
Jardin Majorelle:
Once the home of Yves Saint Laurent the stunning gardens are a beautiful exploration of Moroccan vegetation. Surrounded by my favorite color (cobalt blue) was so peaceful and scenic.
Ben Youssef Madrasa:
This was our very first stop in Marrakech, as it was close to our riad. It was once an Islamic college founded in the fourteenth century. The architecture is stunning, grand, and an even better photo op!
Hotel Mamounia:
This hotel is the epitome of old world glamour. We didn’t stay there but we spent a few hours walking around the massive hotel gardens smelling flowers and taking photos.
WHAT WE ATE:
Atay Café Foods:
I have an obsession with rooftop restaurants and bars. Everything is more beautiful from a rooftop in my opinion. Having a full city view enables me to get a better feel for the layout of the city. This café has three floors and it has tons of art and comfy pillows. We drank lemon mint juice and snacked on spicy olives. Atay Café Foods had an incredible selection and many vegetarian options, which is sometimes hard to find. A great place to go to watch the sunset!
Nomad:
This is another rooftop restaurant located on the outskirts of the souks, a large market located in the city center. It is a great place for views while enjoying a cold drink. Juices are everywhere in Marrakech as they have the climate to grow amazing citrus. It is some of the most delicious and sweetest orange juice I have ever had.
Café des Épices:
Located within the souk, this café is a great place to sit outside and people watch. We ordered a kofta (meatball) tagine and a salad. Marrakech is known for their salads, but not the traditional leaf based salad we’re used to. The salad we ate included small tasting portions of marinated green beans, spicy peppers, potato salad, and eggplant purée. This was a great place to try something classic Marrakechi.
Riad Yasmine:
We ate at our riad our last night to try the food and have a peaceful evening. It’s open to anyone. However, you just need to book 24 hours in advance (we booked the same morning and they didn’t mind). They offer a three-course meal, changed daily by the cook based off what is in season/fresh. We ate a zucchini and crème fresh soup, a lemon and olive chicken tagine, and a chilled chocolate stuffed banana for desert.
We also ate at our riad each morning for breakfast as it was included, and I will say that breakfast was my favorite meal in Morocco. Each morning they offered coffee or tea. Being in Morocco we opted for mint tea and fresh squeezed orange juice. For breakfast, we received a different array of Moroccan pastries and breads each morning.
LAYOVER TIPS:
Just because you can wear a certain article of clothing doesn’t necessarily mean that you should.
If wine or beer aren’t listed on the menu that does not necessarily mean the restaurant doesn’t have alcohol
Take out as much cash as possible out at the airport because ATMs are scarce.
This didn’t bother me, but the air quality is very poor. The air pollution in Marrakech is one of the worst in the world.
If you purchase a rug and ask for it to be shipped, be aware you might never see the rug or your money again.
Download the app maps.me. The streets are confusing and it’s better to trust a map opposed to locals as they will usually lead you to their friend’s shop instead of your intended destination.
Be prepared to be hassled when shopping, it’s best to ignore the sellers if you’re not interested in what they’re selling. If you are interested be prepared to be well versed in the art of bargaining (I was terrible!)
Don’t be fooled by the small size of the airport! Make sure you show up to the airport two hours in advance. We had to check into three different desks and fill out two forms all before security.